PGWP Eligibility in Canada: Who Can Apply

For international students dreaming of building a life in Canada, the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) opens doors to opportunity. 

Whether you aim to gain professional experience or start your own business, understanding PGWP eligibility is the first step. 

As licensed immigration consultants in Canada, we’ve guided hundreds of students through this process, ensuring they meet Canada’s immigration rules with confidence. This guide explores the PGWP eligibility in Canada for students.

Note: This information reflects Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) guidelines as of July 26, 2025. Always check the IRCC website for the latest updates.

What Is a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?

The Post-Graduation Work Permit, issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), Canada’s immigration authority, allows international graduates to work for any employer in Canada. Unlike a study permit, which restricts work hours, the PGWP is an open work permit, meaning you can explore jobs or even start a business in Canada without needing a specific employer’s approval. 

Depending on your program’s length, the PGWP can last up to three years, giving you time to gain Canadian work experience, a key factor for pathways like Express Entry to permanent residency.

Who Qualifies for a PGWP? Key Eligibility Requirements

Securing a PGWP requires meeting strict criteria set by IRCC. 

Here are the main requirements that we have drawn from our experience helping students navigate these rules.

General Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a PGWP, you must:

• Hold a valid study permit when applying.
• Complete a program at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), a school approved by IRCC for international students.
• Maintain full-time student status throughout your program, except in your final semester or during specific exemptions (e.g., COVID-19 accommodations).
• Apply within 180 days of receiving your degree or diploma confirmation, such as a completion letter from your DLI.

Part-time status in your last semester is acceptable, but gaps in study or unauthorized work can jeopardize your application. 

Real case faced by a client:  We assisted a client from Seneca College who nearly lost his PGWP eligibility due to an unreported leave of absence, which we resolved by submitting clarifying documents to IRCC.

Study Program Requirements and CIP Codes

Your program must be at least eight months long and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate. As of November 1, 2024, non-degree programs (e.g., certificates or diplomas) must align with in-demand fields, classified by Statistics Canada’s Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) codes. Eligible fields include:

• Healthcare (e.g., nursing, medical laboratory technology)
• STEM (e.g., computer science, engineering)
• Trades (e.g., welding, carpentry)
• Agriculture (e.g., agribusiness, horticulture)

You can verify your program’s CIP code on Statistics Canada’s website or your DLI’s official documents. 

Degree programs (bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral) are exempt from CIP code requirements, making them a safer choice for eligibility. Flight schools and certain Quebec programs have unique rules, so check IRCC’s special cases section.

Language Proficiency Standards

Post-November 2024, IRCC introduced language requirements for PGWP applicants:

• Degree holders: Achieve Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) 7 in English or French across reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
• Non-degree holders: Achieve CLB 5 in all four skills.

Accepted tests include IELTS, CELPIP (English), or TEF Canada (French). 

Location-Based Eligibility: Studying Inside or Outside Canada

Most PGWP applicants must study at a Canadian DLI campus. If you studied partly outside Canada due to any reason, at least 50% of your program must have been completed in Canada, either in-person or online, until December 31, 2023. After this date, only in-person study counts.

Why Partner with an Immigration Consultant for Your PGWP?

You can complete your PGWP application on your own, but many students end up missing important details and only reach out to an immigration consultant later on. 

To stay on the safe side, working with a licensed immigration consultant can help ensure that you stay on track throughout the process

Benefits of Hiring a Licensed Consultant

Consultants offer:

• Error prevention: They identify issues such as incorrect CIP codes or missing documents, thereby avoiding misrepresentation, which can result in application refusals or bans.
• Tailored advice: They align your PGWP with long-term goals, such as permanent residency or business ownership.
• Time savings: They streamline document preparation and IRCC portal submissions.

Aayam Immigration Services, a CICC-licensed firm, has helped over 500 students achieve their Canadian dreams. 

Ready to start your journey? Book a consultation to ensure your PGWP application shines.

How to Apply for a PGWP: A Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Confirm Your Program’s Eligibility

Check that your DLI is IRCC-approved using the official DLI list. 

For non-degree programs, verify your CIP code on Statistics Canada’s website.

Step 2: Gather Essential Documents

You’ll need:

• A completion letter from your DLI confirming program completion.
• Official transcripts showing your grades and program details.
• A valid passport and proof of funds (e.g., bank statements).
• Language test results (if applicable).

Double-check documents for accuracy. 

Step 3: Submit Your Application Online

Log in to the IRCC portal, pay the mentioned fee, and upload your documents. 

If required, book a biometric appointment at a Visa Application Centre. Submit within 180 days of your completion letter to avoid complications.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid When Applying for a PGWP

Watch out for:

• Misrepresentation: Submitting incorrect CIP codes or language scores. Always verify with Statistics Canada or your DLI.
• Expired study permits: If your permit expires before applying, you may need to leave Canada and apply from abroad. Plan ahead!
• Incomplete documents: Missing transcripts or letters can lead to refusals. Use a checklist.

Frequently Asked Questions About PGWP Eligibility

Can I work while waiting for my PGWP?

Yes, if you apply before your study permit expires, you can work full-time under maintained status. See IRCC’s work authorization page.

Does co-op affect PGWP eligibility?

No, co-op terms count toward your program length if required by your DLI, as confirmed by IRCC.

Can my PGWP business qualify me for permanent residency?

Not directly, but skilled work experience gained alongside your business can boost your Express Entry score. Consult a CICC-licensed professional for a tailored plan.

What is the IELTS score required for PGWP?

For a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada, the required IELTS score depends on your educational level. University graduates (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or PhD) need a minimum of 6.0 in each band (Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking), which is equivalent to CLB 7. College graduates or those with non-degree programs require a minimum of 5.0 in Listening, Speaking, and Writing, and 4.0 in Reading, equivalent to CLB 5.

Can I work 40 hours after applying for PGWP?

Yes, if you’ve applied for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and meet the eligibility criteria, you can work full-time (more than 40 hours per week) while waiting for the decision on your application. You can continue working full-time until a decision is made on your PGWP.

Is 1 year PGWP enough for PR?

A one-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) can be sufficient for permanent residency (PR) under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) if you gain one year of skilled work experience in Canada in a TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3 occupation. However, a longer PGWP (e.g., 2 or 3 years) provides more flexibility and a buffer to find work and gain the required experience, especially if you are relying on the PGWP as your primary pathway to PR.